What does Dunbar mean and where does it come from?
Dunbar is of Scottish origin, derived from place names in Scotland. The name combines 'dùn', meaning 'fort', and 'bàrr', meaning 'height' or 'hill', thus referring to a fort situated on elevated ground near a river. It serves as both a surname and given name. Dunbar has historical significance in Sc
Cultural significance
Dunbar has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Scotland-speaking communities, where it reflects values of scottish gaelic.
Peak popularity
Reached #3176 in 1914 — currently #991 in the US.
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Related Reading
Scotland-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Dunbar?
Dunbar works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Dunbar Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Dunbar Rose
Floral · soft ending
Dunbar Mae
Sweet · timeless
Dunbar Claire
French influence · crisp
Dunbar Jane
Literary · strong
Dunbar Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Dunbar right now?
Holding steady — currently #991 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #991 | 1,209 | ▲ up 5 · +2% births |
| 2022 | #996 | 1,189 | ▲ up 5 · +3% births |
| 2021 | #1001 | 1,159 | ▲ up 2697 · +23080% births |
| 1940 | #3698 | 5 | ▲ up 331 · -17% births |
| 1920 | #4029 | 6 | ▲ up 63 · +20% births |
| 1915 | #4092 | 5 | — |
The story of Dunbar
Dunbar entered American naming records in 1914 and has been in use for over 110 years. With 76 total births recorded, Dunbar remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #4092 in 1915 to #991 in 2023.
Names that peaked alongside Dunbar in 1914:
Dunbar by decade
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1910s | 27 | |
| 1920s ★ | 28 | |
| 1930s | 11 | |
| 1940s | 10 | |
💎Dunbar has only 76 total recorded births since 1914 — rarer than 99% of names in our database.
What are good nicknames for Dunbar?
What names sound and feel like Dunbar?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Dunbar also consider these
Common questions about the name Dunbar
What does the name Dunbar mean?
Dunbar means "Scottish Gaelic" — a name rooted in Scotland tradition that carries both historical depth and timeless appeal. The meaning reflects values that have made this name endure across generations.
How popular is the name Dunbar?
Dunbar is currently ranked #991 as a boy name in the US and is holding steady in popularity, a reliable classic that parents consistently choose.
What is the cultural origin of Dunbar?
Dunbar originates from Scotland tradition. Scotland names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
How do you pronounce the name Dunbar?
Dunbar is a two-syllable name pronounced D AH1 N B AA0 R. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Dunbar a common or rare name?
Dunbar is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.